Back-to-school energy checkup save

As summer winds down and students head back to the classroom, your home’s daily routine also changes. With fewer people at home during the day, now is a great time to make a few adjustments that can help save energy and prepare your home for the changing seasons.

One of the easiest places to start is your thermostat. If the house is empty for several hours each weekday, consider adjusting the temperature while everyone is away. A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically raise the temperature during the day in summer and lower it in winter, helping reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.

Back-to-school season is also a good reminder to revisit lighting habits. Turn off lights in empty rooms and consider replacing older bulbs with ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs. LEDs use significantly less electricity and last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

As summer activities wind down, take a look around your home for electronics that may be running unnecessarily. Game consoles, televisions, chargers, and other devices continue to use electricity even when they’re not actively in use. Plugging electronics into a smart power strip can make it easier to reduce standby energy consumption.

August is also a good time to think ahead to cooler weather. Check weatherstripping around doors and windows for signs of wear. Small air leaks can allow conditioned air to escape, making your heating and cooling system work harder throughout the year. Sealing gaps and replacing worn weatherstripping can improve comfort and efficiency.

Don’t forget about your heating and cooling system. Replace or clean air filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and clear debris from outdoor air conditioning units. Proper maintenance helps equipment operate more efficiently and can extend its lifespan.

If your home has ceiling fans, remember that they should rotate counterclockwise during the summer months to create a cooling breeze. When cooler weather arrives, reversing the fan direction can help distribute warm air more evenly throughout the room.

Back-to-school season often brings new schedules and routines. Taking a few minutes now to adjust settings, perform basic maintenance and automate energy-saving habits can help lower energy use and keep your home comfortable as the seasons change.

Small changes today can add up to savings throughout the school year.